Patriots’ Cam Newton heading to COVID-19 reserve list after reportedly testing positive, will not face Chiefs

While the Tennessee Titans have experienced a COVID-19 outbreak this week, another team may be in some trouble. On Saturday morning, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton tested positive for the coronavirus, and will miss Sunday’s matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. CBS Sports NFL insider Jason La Canfora confirms Newton will be heading to the COVID-19 reserve list. The Patriots have reportedly been conducting mass testing and re-testing, and there has been no spread so far.

The Patriots released a statement confirming they had a player test positive for COVID-19 but did not name said player.

“Late last night, we received notice that a Patriots player tested positive for COVID-19. The player immediately entered self-quarantine. Several additional players, coaches and staff who have been in close contact with the player received point of care tests this morning and all were negative for COVID-19.

We are in close consultation with the NFL, as well as our team of independent doctors and specialists, and will follow their guidance regarding our scheduled trip to Kansas City and game against the Chiefs. The health and safety of our team, as well as our opponent, are of highest priority.”

In three games for the Patriots, Newton has completed 68.1 percent of his passes for 714 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He’s made a considerable impact on the ground, however, as he has rushed 35 times for 149 yards and four touchdowns. The veteran quarterback inked a minimum one-year deal with the club this past summer that has a base salary of just $1.05 million. 

Bill Belichick will now have to make the decision if he wants to start Brian Hoyer or Jarrett Stidham under center tomorrow. It’s important to note that the incubation period for the virus is typically 3-7 days. That means that we unfortunately could see more positive tests in the coming days, such as with what has happened in Nashville with the Titans.